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Monday, April 16, 2012

Balsamic Pasta Salad with Chicken

As a main course or side dish, this rich pasta is sure to please your family or a whole crowd!

1 pkg penne pasta, boiled per package directions

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

¼ cup minced basil

2 T brown sugar

¼ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

¼ tsp garlic powder

2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked (Try broiling)

¼ cup grated parmesan

Prepare pasta per package instructions; drain and place in large bowl. Cover and refrigerate 1-2 hours, until chilled.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder; pour over pasta and stir to coat. Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized cubes and add to pasta(Tip: This is a good way to use up leftover chicken, but if you don’t have any on hand, try broiling raw, seasoned chicken breasts for 8-9 minutes per side). Stir in parmesan. Chill until ready to serve.